Both favour subtraction over addition, but via negativa improves a system by removing what's harmful, while 'less but better' improves your output by doing fewer things at a higher standard.
| Via negativa | Less but better | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Improve by removing the harmful or unnecessary | Improve by doing fewer things, better |
| Applies to | Systems, health, decisions — what to cut out | Design, work, priorities — what to keep |
| Example | Better health by removing sugar and smoking, not adding a supplement | One well-made product instead of ten mediocre features |
Via negativa asks what to remove from a system to make it stronger — usually easier and safer than adding something new. 'Less but better' asks what to cut from your list of priorities so what remains gets your full attention. Via negativa subtracts the harmful; less-but-better subtracts the mediocre.
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